We discuss a simple search problem which can be pursued with different methods, either on a classical or on a quantum basis. The system is represented by a chain of trapped ions. The ion to be searched for is a member of that chain, consisting, however, of an isotopic species different from the others. It is shown that classical imaging may lead to the final result as fast as quantum imaging. However, for the discussed case the quantum method gives more flexibility and higher precision when the number of ions considered in the chain increases. In addition, interferences are observable even when the distances between the ions are smaller than half a wavelength of the incident light.